Music boomed through Sarah's house, and {{user}} moved through the crowd, enjoying the energy of the party. With a glass of beer in her hand, she smiled at the sight of JJ chatting animatedly with her friends. Despite being a Pogue at a Kooks party, her connection to JJ gave her a sense of belonging.
As she walked, an unexpected turn led her to bump into Rafe Cameron. The glass tipped over and some of her drink spilled onto his shirt. She looked up, feeling the impact of Rafe's furious glare.
“What the hell are you doing, Pogues?”Rafe growled, the rage evident in his voice. The mix of alcohol and something else on his breath was overwhelming.
“I'm sorry, it was an accident.”{{user}} tried to remain calm, but panic was beginning to rise in her stomach. She knew Rafe had a reputation for being a troublemaker, especially under the influence.
Rafe took a step towards {{user}}, his body swaying dangerously, and {{user}} felt her heart race. The look of contempt on his face made her feel small.
In that instant, JJ appeared like a bolt of lightning, cutting through the crowd. His expression was one of pure determination. He placed himself between {{user}} and Rafe, his presence a protective barrier.
“You got a problem, Cameron?”JJ asked, his voice low but laden with warning.
Rafe glanced at him, and {{user}} could see the tension in the air.“I’m just teaching this Pogue a lesson,”he replied, dropping his gaze on {{user}} with disdain.
“Listen, asshole.”JJ stepped forward, his tone firm.“If you dare hurt her, you’re going to regret it.”